A CRANE which broke down due to tyre problems caused delays on one of Essex’s busiest roads during rush hour.

One lane had to be closed earlier today along the A12 northbound between junction 24 at Kelvedon and junction 25 at Marks Tey after a broken-down crane required a change of tyre.

Traffic was understood to be slow moving for several hours and built up as far back as junction 22 at Witham.

Essex Police confirmed traffic officers were at the scene of the break down offering their assistance.

Sergeant Colin Shead tweeted: "A12 between Kelvedon north and Marks Tey one lane closed for tyre change on a broken down crane."

Highways England confirmed the recovery of the crane was complete just after 11am and the lane was subsequently reopened.